They found that when they were given caffeine, the receptors of a molecule called adenosine – which contributes to sleep and energy production – were blocked.

And that was happening in the hypothalamus area of the brain, which is a main regulator of energy balance in mammals.

The amount you’d have to drink to make a difference is huge, though [Photo: Pexels]

In mice, this triggered the release of oxytocin from brain cells and thus reduced levels of obesity, and scientists at the University believe the study could even lead to a caffeine-based anti-obesity pill being created in future.

“Oxytocin is a critical mediator of the anti-obesity effect of caffeine,” Professor Zhang, the study’s lead author, noted.

“Hence, targeting adenosine receptors by caffeine or its derivatives could represent a relevant strategy to counteract obesity and related comorbidities [illnesses].”

If in doubt eat a healthy, balanced diet and get your running shoes on [Photo: Pexels]

Though keep in mind that the amount these mice were being injected with was extremely high – 60mg/kg, which is between 24 and 36 cups of coffee for humans.